Avoiding Scams

Scam Alert

Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported a scam targeting non-U.S. citizens by individuals claiming to work for ICE’s Detention Reporting and Information Line (DRIL). The scammers contact non-citizens claiming there are issues with their immigration cases and asking for money to fix the problem. Be Aware: ICE’s DRIL operators do not make outbound calls or ever ask for money from individuals.

If you receive a call, alert ICE as soon as possible. To notify ICE of any suspicious activity as identified above, please contact the Joint Intake Center at (866) 347-2423. The public may also contact the DRIL directly at (888) 351-4024, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time).

Immigrants and international students are increasingly targeted by telephone and internet scams. Scam artists often pose as local law enforcement or a federal agent, claiming the student owes money and threatening legal action if the money is not paid. Frequently, scam artists spoof real government phone numbers to make it look as though they are calling from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services help line, or even 911.

Scams seem to increase around times immigrants or international students are particularly vulnerable. For example, we hear reports from international students at the beginning of the school year, during tax season or when there are changes in immigration policies.

Do not be fooled. U.S. government agencies and local law enforcement will not ask for any form of payment over the phone. If you are the target of a scam artist, you should:

If you are an international student or scholar, contact ISSS during Walk-In Hours or email isss@umn.edu. They can help you report the call, and gather information about these scams and provide support to people who have been affected.